Biker Nation Unites to Battle Diabetes

Rip’s B.A.D. Ride and the American Diabetes Association Celebrate Twelve Years
of Partnership in the Fight Against Diabetes

On Sunday June 14th thousands of bikers from across Southern California will converge upon Oak Canyon Park in Orange County for a day of festivities, friendship and goodwill. They will be making a  unified stand against diabetes, a deadly disease which affects nearly 24 million Americans.Led by celebrity Grand Marshalls, actor Larry Hagman and Karen Davidson of the Harley-Davidson Family, the ride originates at sixteen start sites throughout the region and culminates in a family festival.

The day at the park includes a delicious lunch, live concert, bike show, children’s activities, exhibitors and other various entertainment. This event is open to riders and non-riders alike; those who do not wish to participate in the escorted ride may drive directly to the festival location as early as 10am. Entry fee is a minimum of $30 in fundraising, all of which goes directly to the American Diabetes Association to fund diabetes research, education, and advocacy efforts. Last year’s event alone raised nearly $350,000 and the Southern California Ride has brought in around $3 million dollars to-date.
The B.A.D. Ride was conceived twelve years ago by Rip Rose, a biker, a roving photojournalist for Easyriders Magazine, and a
diabetic. Rip had a vision of rallying the brotherhood of motorcyclists to help put an end to the suffering caused by diabetes. He enlisted the help of the American Diabetes Association and the first B.A.D. Ride was born with approximately 300 riders participating. Twelve years later, the Southern California event boasts around 3,000 participants and the B.A.D. Ride has spread to Northern California, Arizona, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Texas. Rip passed away in 2000 due to complications of diabetes and cancer, however his vision will continue to be realized as more Ride locations are added each year.
Visit www.ripsbadride.com for online registration and up to date information on start sites and festival activities. For further
information or questions, contact the B.A.D. Ride Hotline at (888) 342-2383 x 7518.
American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure, and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities;
provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

Karen Davidson at the SoCal B.A.D. Ride

Rip Rose—Founder of Rip’s B.A.D. Ride

The Motorcycles Pour in Oak Canyon Park

B.A.D. Riders Enjoying the Exhibitors